Posted by Deaton Wright | 02.01.2014 | Adult Surf Camps, Costa Rica Surf Camp

Costa Rica Surf Camp : Session II

As light slowly emerged over the Pacific Ocean we peered out the window and spotted chest to head high, perfect, glassy waves peeling into Tamarindo Bay.  Our Adult Costa Rica Surf Camp was about to experience one of the best swells of the year.  We had a wide variety of campers from all over North America, each with their own goals for the week, in and out of the water.

We started the week with orientation and ground school in the stunning Hotel Diria pool.  While in the pool, we discussed ocean safety, paddling technique and our exciting agenda.  Practicing paddling technique in the tranquil pool provided a stress free environment for everyone to get to know their equipment.  Afterwards, we headed out to Playa Avellanas for our first surf session!

The untouched beauty of Avellanas was the perfect setting for our first full beach day of our Costa Rica Surf Camp. Tracey, Steven, Erica, and Duane all stood up and rode waves to the beach, while Susan and Kelli cheered them on from the relaxing shade of the mangroves Veteran Surf Camper Ryan had goals of improving his skills riding down the line.  WB Surf Camp founder, Rick Civelli, guided Ryan to the more intermediate surf breaks that would challenge and push him to reach the next level.  

After our session, we made our way up the beach to Lola’s – a beach front restaurant with one of the most relaxing vibes imaginable.  We sipped on fresh fruit smoothies, and ate pan seared ahi tuna, while  enjoying the ocean view and sounds of reggae.

Later in the evening, we went to  a local festival where the town heroes braved some of the biggest bulls brought in from various farms around the region.  As we joined the locals surrounding the arena, we witnessed the raw power of the animals and lassoing skills of highly experienced cowboys.  It was awesome to be immersed in such a sacred local tradition.

Zip lining was once again a highlight for our crew.  As we made our way up the mountain in a flatbed pickup truck, Howler monkeys roared at us from above.  Once reaching the top of the mountain, we spotted the Pacific Ocean from our initial platform.  The expanse of the horizon was breathtaking!  While soaring eighty feet above the ground and over three hundred yards in distance, we cheered with excitement!

As our surf sessions continued throughout the week, individual progression was evident.  Beginners  started paddling into their own waves by the end of the week, and personal goals were being achieved.  It’s amazing how surfing brought our group together, as we motivated each other and celebrated everyone’s successes.   With the help of our photographers Rafa and Arelys, we captured the top waves and wipe outs of each day, and had a great time reviewing both!  Through viewing photos of each individual we were able to learn from their mistakes and work on improving technique.  

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.  We soon found our week coming to a close, but each of us will return home inspired, recharged, and refreshed.  The warm spirit of Pura Vida – a.k.a Pure Life – will resonate within each of us as we return to our daily lives forever changed.